California Assessment of Student Performance and Progress (CAASPP) English Practice Exam

What transition is appropriate to use at the beginning of your first supporting paragraph in an expository essay?

1. To begin

2. In addition

3. Firstly

4. Next

The correct answer is: To begin

Beginning an expository essay with a transition that signals the start of your discussion is crucial for setting the stage for your argument or explanation. "To begin" effectively introduces the first supporting paragraph because it clearly indicates to the reader that you are initiating your main points or presenting the foundational ideas of your argument. It establishes a clear starting point, which is essential for guiding the reader through the essay. While the other transitions might signal a continuation of ideas or points, they imply that there have already been preceding arguments or pieces of information. "In addition" and "Next" suggest a follow-up or additional points after an initial claim has already been made, which is not fitting for the very first supporting paragraph. "Firstly" could have been a suitable choice in some contexts, but it can imply a list-like structure that may not seamlessly flow as an introduction to a singular, foundational point. Therefore, "To begin" is the most appropriate transition for launching into your first supporting paragraph in an expository essay.